When we confess our sins to Jesus, the stain of our past is totally removed. We are justified and made righteous. We are no longer guilty of our sins. Hallelujah! Yet we struggle to believe this. That’s why it’s important for us to confess our sins to others. James 5:16 says, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed.” Opening our hearts to someone else about our “junk” is very liberating.
Part of your job as a mentor is to help your disciple break free from the shame of past sins. They will at times need to confess ugly habits or embarrassing choices. Your job is to extend forgiveness and mercy. Don’t judge them or act shocked. Never talk about your disciple’s sins to others. Your disciple will feel betrayed if you break confidence. 1 Peter 4:8 says: “Love covers a multitude of sins.” I always promise confidentiality to my disciples. Be a mentor they can trust to cover them!